How to identify brass metal

Written by scarlett gauthier

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Various valuable antiques are made of brass. (Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images)

Brass is a highly durable metal that is commonly found in antiques and artefacts. Many collectors search for brass items as they can be rather valuable. Unfortunately, many metals resemble brass, which can make it difficult to identify a brass item. However, various methods can determine whether you have found a brass antique or an antique composed of another metal. These tests, including magnetism and chemical reaction tests, will also help you identify whether your item's make-up is solid brass or simply has a brass coating.

Skill level:

Moderate

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Things you need

Varnish cleaner

5 to 10 per cent citric acid solution

Bowl

Brass stripper/stripping agent

Steel wool cloth

Magnet

Hydrochloric acid

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Instructions

1

Inspect the metal object for oxidation marks or encrustations that are the result of oxidation. The markings usually appear in a bluish or greenish tint on the metal along with some rust spots.

2

Remove the oxidation and rust with a varnish cleaner. Soak the object in a solution of 5 to 10 per cent citric acid until the oxidation has come off. It might take anywhere from an hour to various days for the oxidation to dissolve. Stir the citric acid periodically.

3

Clean the metal object with a brass stripper and stripping product to better view the metal's colour. Buff the metal surface with a steel wool cloth.

4

Check the metal's colour now that it is polished. A metal object that is relatively yellow is identified as brass. Other metals such as copper generally have pink tints and tones. Brass is also stronger than copper, which is usually more malleable.

5

Place a magnet close to the brass. If the object attracts the magnet, the object is not solid brass. However, it might have a brass plating.

6

Apply a small amount of hydrochloric acid to an area of the brass. Test only a small area because the test is corrosive. Unlike some metals, brass turns pink when it is tested with hydrochloric acid.

Tips and warnings

Use proper equipment, including gloves and eye protection, when handling hazardous materials like hydrochloric acid.